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Stomach flu is making the rounds

Sun Country Health Region (SCHR) has experienced an increase of gastrointestinal illness (stomach flu) during the last couple of weeks. The Region has seen the impact in its emergency rooms, and has two norovirus outbreaks in its health care facilities.

Dr. Shauna Hudson, Medical Health Officer and Dr. Alain Lenferna, Vice President, Medical for Sun Country Health Region want to remind people of the steps to take to limit its spread.

The gastrointestinal illness making the rounds can be caused by many different viruses and bacteria. Norovirus is one common cause of the vomiting and diarrhea.

The steps to take to prevent the stomach flu:

1. Wash your hands frequently

Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds to help remove bacteria and viruses and prevent spreading them. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer is also effective.

Wash your hands:

after using the washroom;

after diapering a child;

before handling food or preparing meals;

before and after eating;

after being in contact with someone who has the stomach flu.

Handwashing is very important if you are visiting friends or family in a health care facility.

Protect the residents and protect yourself by using the hand sanitizing stations when arrive at or leave our health-care facilities.

It is also important to wash your hands to prevent the spread of other diseases too. Washing your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose can prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses that cause colds and lung infections.